Sen. Peters to Join Senate Armed Services Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Gary Peters announced he has been appointed to the Senate Committee on Armed Services for the 115th Congress, subject to ratification by the Democratic Caucus. Peters will also continue to serve on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee; Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee; and the Joint Economic Committee.
“As a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, I am proud to be carrying on Michigan’s strong military tradition by joining the Senate Armed Services Committee. Michigan helped build the Arsenal of Democracy that defeated tyranny in World War II, beginning a defense legacy that stretches into present day as Michigan airmen, soldiers, sailors and Marines are supporting the fight against ISIS,” said Senator Peters.
“I look forward to being a strong voice in the Senate for Michigan’s servicemembers, veterans, military installations and the defense manufacturers that help our military complete their mission safely and effectively,” continued Senator Peters. “Through my work on both the Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees, I will be focused on keeping the American people safe and secure from security threats at home and abroad.”
“Michigan’s National Guard footprint stretches across the globe with servicemembers serving in some of the military’s most cutting-edge missions and participating in and supporting operations in every region of the world,” said Major General Gregory Vadnais, The Adjutant General, Michigan National Guard. “It’s an honor to lead and work with the professional, high-caliber men and women of the Michigan National Guard, and I am pleased Michigan will now have such a strong representation on the Senate Armed Services Committee."
“Senator Peters has been a champion in Washington for the Battle Creek Air National Guard base, passing legislation to maintain the base’s RPA mission and strongly supporting the 110th Attack Wing’s new cyber operations squadron,” said Joe Sobieralski, President and CEO, Battle Creek Unlimited, Inc. “With his seat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Peters will be able to continue his good work advocating for Battle Creek’s defense community, boosting our economy and strengthening Michigan’s role in our national defense.”
“As a U.S. Navy Reserve sailor who drilled at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Senator Peters understands the impact of the base and its unique position as a joint facility that plays multiple roles in America’s security at home and abroad. We appreciate his strong support for maintaining and advancing Selfridge’s fighter mission and know he will be a strong representative of the Selfridge community and Macomb County on the Senate Armed Services Committee,” said Grace Shore, CEO of the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce.
Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status.
There are seven military installations in the State of Michigan: Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center; Battle Creek Air National Guard Base; Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center; the Defense Logistics Agency at Hart-Doyle-Inouye Federal Center; Fort Custer Training Center; Selfridge Air National Guard Base; and U.S. Army Garrison-Detroit Arsenal. Additionally, Michigan is home to over 16,900 servicemembers, 9,100 civilian Department of Defense employees, 650,000 veterans and a vibrant defense manufacturing sector.
